Michael Ring
Question:1638. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health if he has any plans to introduce legislation to ban an activity (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39630/22]
View answerDáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022
1638. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health if he has any plans to introduce legislation to ban an activity (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39630/22]
View answerIn April 2018, then Minister of State for Health Promotion Catherine Byrne responded to a Private Members motion that proposed to extend the legislative base for the smoking ban to outdoor areas where food is consumed. It was agreed that these measures could be examined after the current legislative priorities were completed.
The current priority is the Public Health (Tobacco and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill. As well as introducing a new licensing system for the retail sale of tobacco products, this Bill also contains new control measures that would prohibit the sale of tobacco products from self - service vending machines, from temporary or moveable premises, and at events intended primarily for children.
Drafting of the Public Health (Tobacco and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill is ongoing with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel.
Any organisation can introduce a tobacco free campus on their premises if they wish. The dangers of second hand smoke are well established and the introduction of a smoke free policy in any setting would be in line with the public health goals of Tobacco Free Ireland.